The Lives of Whales and Dolphins: From the American Museum of Natural History

by Richard C. Connor

An accessible and lavishly illustrated exploration of the world of whales and dolphins, based on the latest research, follows the seventy-five species of these creatures from birth through all aspects of their fascinating lives. 10,000 first printing.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, Animals

233 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1994

Reviews

[Deb Omnivorous Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well written, well researched introduction to Cetaceans, their species and divisions, their habits and habitats, their behaviour and intelligence.

While at times it can read a little like a text-book, that is mostly because it is so well organised, it is easy to follow the chapters through so I personally liked that about it. At other times the authors genuine love of and interest in the lives of these amazing animals comes through and at those times it is light and easy reading.

The examples come from a wealth of different animals, drawing together a variety of research data personal experiences and anecdotal stories I feel that all the stories and information are put together nicely, in such a way as to make this book accessible and interesting to people from all sorts of backgrounds: For example I have a marine biology degree, but never concentrated on marine mammals there was plenty there to keep me interested. Published in the early 90's there is a bit that is out of date - DNA and technology have advanced enough that whole parts of the book are out of date. I very much fear that at least one of the 'endangered' species is extinct, or functionally so. That aside, it is still well worth reading and I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who wants to know more about these magnificent and diverse animals.

[Ayda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I DIDN'T ACTUALLY FINISH IT BC I HAD TO RETURN IT TO THE LIBRARY
But it's really interesting and good!!!